The Calvin Ayre report of PokerStars’ alleged expansion efforts was based on a survey that went out to players e-mail boxes. That survey, which PokerStars says went out in late 2011, was aimed at finding out what other casino games they were playing and where they were playing them.

PokerStars’ Head of Corporate Communications, Eric Hollreiser quickly poo-pooed the expansion theory in an article on PokerFuse.com. He said that the survey is not only outdated, but that that type of inquiry is part of the company’s regular business practices.

Hollreiser was pretty clear about his company’s current plans, but definitely left the door open for future expansions saying they he’s, “always open to new business opportunities that could strengthen our offering to players.” (Which is, of course, a great strategy for any business.)

There’s no question that PokerStars is making big moves in the industry, their purchase of Full Tilt Poker proves that. Given the opportunities at stake with the American market an expansion of this caliber is a bit of a stretch.

For now, it appears that almost everything in the CalvinAyre.com article was based on speculation and educated guessing, and not facts. Until we hear otherwise, stories of PokerStars’ expansion into casino and sports betting markets should be dismissed.

Do you think that PokerStars will be expanding into European Casino and Sports Betting markets? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

One Response to Is PokerStars Expanding into Euro Casino and Sports Betting?

mike litson September 6, 2012 at 2:06 am

I’d suggest that the eventuality is that they will go into those markets at some point, but think about it, their position as top dog of poker is under threat from two sides, real money social gaming and the USA market changes, if they don’t get this right 1st everything could crumble around them. So that is clearly going to be the 1st priority.

Now is not the time for them to expand into other sectors as much as assure dominance in their own.